Our Donations Help Others

Special Children’s Charities of Chicago is the fundraising organization of Special Olympics Chicago. Special Olympics provide a competitive forum for thousands of special athletes here in Chicago every year. Both were founded in 1969 for athletes competing in everything from gymnastics to tennis, basketball to track and field.

Benton Community Settlement carries a proud tradition that can be found in the smiles of our children, the competitive nature of our young adults, and the satisfaction and appreciation that abounds in the sentiment of our seniors. We are a not-for-profit settlement home that has operated for over 90 years with many children’s programs but few funds. The programs offered include, but are not limited to: Summer Day Camp, Kiddie Time (pre-school program), Begin again Moms, Father & Son Floor Hockey, Saturday Play Camp, and Storytime.

The Lux Family

In Spring of 2017 we found out that our son Tristan’s heart has a dilated aortic root with leakage. Looking at other symptoms, Tristan’s cardiologist suggested having him tested for Marfan Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue. Connective tissue holds all the body’s cells, organs and tissue together. Tristan was diagnosed in August 2017 with Marfan Syndrome. Other than his current heart problem, Marfan Syndrome has multiple other effects on the bodies heart, blood vessels, bones, joints, eyes, and lungs. This is an extremely recent diagnosis and we do not know what th future may hold for Tristan.

Tristan (a huge sports fan at the young age of 7) went from playing football, baseball, and basketball to now being unable to participate in sports because if he gets hit the “wrong way” there could be some serious or event deadly consequences. He is also very limited to what he can do in gym and recess for fear his heart could potentially burst.

We’re still learning about Marfan Syndrome every day and because it is rare, it’s been a bit of a challenge. We know that as Tristan becomes older, he will have a significantly increased chance of being affected by Scoliosis, eye issues, lung issues and continued heart issues. Mike and I worry on a daily basis for what the future hold for our son. And to be able to eliminate some of the financial burden would help.